We Will Rock You

As the biggest Queen fan EVER! I was seriously looking forward to the latest production by In Your Face Theatre Seaham Youth, “We Will Rock You.”  Directed and choreographed by Jade-Leigh Hewitt, supported by Jenni Watson as Musical Director and Billie Kay as assistant director, it was always going to be exciting. Sadly, LNER had other plans, significantly delaying my train so I did miss the first half hour but luckily as Michelle Coulson was attending as Youth Co-Ordinator, she was able to make some notes on what I missed. So huge apologies to IYFTSY and huge thank you to Michelle for standing in for me whilst the train gods were conspiring against me.

Overall, In Your Face Theatre Seaham Youth’s production of 'We Will Rock You' was a resounding success, showcasing the immense talent of its young cast and the dedicated efforts of its creative team. Based on the music of Queen, We Will Rock You is a futuristic jukebox musical featuring the incredible hits of Queen. Non-computer-generated music is banned, and Killer Queen has heard of a prophecy that instruments are hidden on the planet with a “Dreamer” likely to show people the way to them and end her reign.

Settling was simple but really effective with two raised platforms, flight cases and a real motorbike on stage used as a prop in “Headlong” which really gave an authentic gritty feel.

The opening was strong, choreography well-rehearsed and appropriate and made the most of the strength of the cast. “Killer Queen” was especially slick, as was “Headlong” with really clever use of lights on gloves which really did just give it an edge.

The costumes and make up were excellent, capturing the essence of the characters and the futuristic world of 'We Will Rock You.' The attention to detail and creativity in the costume design and make up greatly enhanced the visual appeal of the production, contributing to an immersive theatrical experience.  I am sure director Jade-Leigh Hewitt was trying to give me PTSD with the colander use in Flash #ifyouknowyouknow!

Technical support from East Durham Audio (Duncan Baxter) and POSS productions (Paul Oliver) was consistently excellent again though I did find the sound a little loud which is unusual. Paul had clearly thoroughly enjoyed himself creating the rock concert like world in a very difficult venue and the digital backdrops created by Jade set the scene beautifully and gave a fab versatility.

Nathan Johnson, who never fails to blow me away with amazement at his talent, played Galileo who hears Queen lyrics in his dreams and leads the Bohemians. He commanded the stage during “I Want to Break Free” with lots of confidence and I adored “Hammer to Fall.”  Nathan is just incredible at all he does and such a humble pleasant young man into the bargain too but for this role he blew us all away. He learned how to play the live guitar riffs in Bohemian Rhapsody so complimented the tracks with live music! Utterly incredible Nathan, I am still in awe of you and suspect I always will be.

The other standout performances of the evening for me were delivered by Lucy, Luke, and Evie whose captivating portrayals of their characters brought the show to life. Luke’s commanding stage presence as Khashoggi and vocal prowess were particularly noteworthy, effortlessly anchoring the production and really different from anything I have seen him do before. Really confident, more mature with great diction, well done Luke.

Lucy looked utterly stunning and performed with a maturity beyond her years with some extremely difficult vocals to master as Scaramouche. She also managed to stay completely still during a full number which is some significant feat – it is harder than it looks! “Somebody to Love” was very powerfully delivered as was “Who Wants to Live Forever” one of my personal favourites.

Evie playing Oz has come so far since I saw her last in Oliver. Her confidence, stamina, stage presence, vocal abilities and acting skills have significantly developed, and it really was a joy to watch her. Well done, Evie! “I Want it All” was delivered so well with great harmony with Orie.

Orie is another youngster who just excels in all he does, but I could have watched him playing Britney Spears all night. His comedic delivery has always been good but appears to be getting better as he matures too, great work Orie. Madoc playing Buddy again consistently strong and versatile with comedic delivery and he did so well on the supporting role in the case. Abigale as Killer Queen, again another wonderful member of IYFTS, such a lovely talented girl who excels in what she does, and this was no different. Amelia played the same role as a split cast whom I am sure was also excellent, but it was Abigale’s performance I saw (and barely recognised her under that wig!).

IYFTS are lucky enough to have a fabulous large cast with roles also being taken by William as mini Khashoggi, Lexi as Aretha, Charley as Sixx, James as Bruce Springsteen, Niall as Paul McCartney, Chloe as Madonna, Sienna as Drake, Rony as Ringo, William as George, Aimee as Soloist, Ruby as Soloist, Sydney as Soloist and an absolutely gorgeous dancer, Faye as Gaga Student, Danny as Michael, Laura as John, Sophie as Gaga Student, Amelia as Globalsoft Manager, Maddison as Bot, Molly as Bot, Isabelle as Bot, Nina as Teen Queen, Charlotte as Teen Queen, Ella as Teen Queen and Lilly-Anne as Teen Queen.  Absolutely fabulous every one of you.

In Your Face Theatre Seaham Youth has once again demonstrated their commitment to high-quality youth theatre with this production of 'We Will Rock You.' The combination of exceptional performances, excellent costumes, amazing teams on and off stage and the thrilling live music made for an unforgettable evening of entertainment. The dedication and hard work of everyone involved was evident throughout the performance, resulting in a thoroughly professional and enjoyable show.

Congratulations to all the cast and crew for their outstanding work. The future of youth theatre is undoubtedly bright with such talented individuals leading the way. To quote Freddie Mercury himself "We don't do it for the money, we do it for the music.”

 

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